Missing Hikers Body Found 2 Months After Disappearance With Surviving Dog At His Side

Credit: Colorado Missing Person Organization

Two months after going missing, a hiker's body was discovered dead beside his living dog.

Rich Moore and Finney, his Jack Russell terrier, set off on August 19, 2023, with the goal of reaching Blackhead Peak, which is located east of Pagosa Springs.

The 71-year-old and his 14-year-old furry friend vanished from sight, and on October 30, a rescue squad regrettably found Moore's body alongside Finney, who was still alive.

Search and rescue crews spent more than 2,000 hours looking for Moore and his dog after it was initially discovered that he and Finney were gone.

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They were only able to retrieve Moore's car, according to sources.

After two months, a hunter found Moore in the Lower Blanco River area the day before Halloween. 

Finney had survived the entire time in the wilderness and had stayed with his owner, according to the Denver Gazette.

After search and rescue teams were dispatched into the forest to locate and retrieve Moore's body, his devoted Jack Russell was taken right away to a vet.

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Updated on their search, Taos Search and Rescue posted on Facebook that Delinda Vanne-Brightyn, a member of the organization, "along with her certified K9 AkioYodasan responded to the initial search."

Delinda writes: "We searched from just under the peak-top and directly West, searching down the mountain toward where his car was located. Winds were directly from the West/Southwest. It was so steep, that we were inserted in by a helicopter. He was found 2.5 miles East of the mountaintop beneath where we were inserted."

Many individuals have gathered on the post to express their condolences and demonstrate solidarity with Moore's faithful canine friend.

One user said: "Oh my goodness…his sweet dog stayed with him for over two months? Sending prayers for his family. Thank you for your work in locating him and giving this family some closure."

"Amazing that the dog stayed with him. They are truly man's best friend," another added.

Moore's official cause of death is still unknown, but no foul play is suspected, according to the Denver Gazette.

The post concludes: "Delinda and TSAR would like to send our condolences to the family, but are glad they were able to gain some closure as well as bring their dog back home."

Rich Moore and Finney's journey is a touching reminder of the special bond people share with their furry companions.

This marks the third instance in a year of a dog found alive next to a deceased hiker.

In May 2022, a Labrador was discovered beside the body of a 74-year-old man who had passed away during a hike in Arizona.

The month before, a missing 29-year-old hiker was found dead in Los Angeles' Griffith Park, with his loyal dog by his side.

Family members noted that it appeared the dog had stayed faithfully by the hiker's side for two weeks.